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Sleep paralysis is when you go from a state of being asleep to being awake but can’t move your muscles. - Sleep paralysis can be scary, but only lasts a short time and doesn’t cause harm. - During an episode of sleep paralysis, you might have hallucinations (see or hear things that aren’t real), like feeling the presence of someone in your room. - Sleep paralysis can be caused by irregular sleeping patterns or not getting enough sleep. - Usually you don’t need any treatment, but episodes can be prevented by maintaining healthy sleep habits. ## On this page - [What is sleep paralysis?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep-paralysis#what-is) - [What are the symptoms of sleep paralysis?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep-paralysis#symptoms) - [What causes sleep paralysis?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep-paralysis#caused) - [When should I see my doctor?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep-paralysis#doctor) - [How is sleep paralysis diagnosed?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep-paralysis#diagnosed) - [How is sleep paralysis treated?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep-paralysis#treated) - [What are the complications of sleep paralysis?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep-paralysis#compications) - [Can sleep paralysis be prevented?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep-paralysis#prevented) - [Resources and support](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep-paralysis#resources) - [Related information on Australian websites](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep-paralysis#searchGeneralResults) ## What is sleep paralysis? Sleep paralysis is when you cannot move or speak for a short time after waking up or while falling [asleep](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep). It may last a few seconds or a few minutes. About 8 in every 100 people will experience sleep paralysis at some stage. It might happen only once, or recur often. It usually starts in [adolescence or early adulthood](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/life-stages), around 17 to 20 years old. It does not cause any physical harm, but it can be scary. During a stage of sleep called ‘rapid eye movement (REM)’ sleep, your body becomes temporarily paralysed. This means you can’t move your [muscles](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/bones-muscles-and-joints). It may be your body’s way of preventing you from acting out your dreams. This paralysis is normal, but you’re not aware of it because you’re asleep. If this muscle paralysis from REM sleep continues after you wake up, you will be fully aware of being paralysed. ## What are the symptoms of sleep paralysis? During an episode of sleep paralysis, you are awake and aware of what is going on. Episodes can involve: - not being able to move any part of your body, except your [eyes](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/eyes) - not being able to talk - feeling scared or [anxious](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/anxiety) - [hallucinations](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/hallucination) — for example, seeing things that aren’t real, sensing there is an intruder in your room or that something is pressing on your chest or choking you - hearing noises that are not there such as voices, hissing, zapping or buzzing - [sweating](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/night-sweats) ## What causes sleep paralysis? Sleep paralysis may occur on its own or it may be related to other health conditions, including: - [high blood pressure](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/high-blood-pressure-hypertension) - [mental health conditions](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-health-conditions) — in particular [anxiety](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/anxiety) and [post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd) - [obstructive sleep apnoea](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/obstructive-sleep-apnoea) - narcolepsy — a brain condition involving extreme daytime drowsiness even after enough sleep - [alcohol](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/alcohol) or [substance abuse](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/substance-abuse) - Wilson’s disease — a rare [genetic condition](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/guide-to-genetic-disorders) where too much copper builds up in the body Sleep paralysis is also linked to: - not getting enough sleep — for example, because of work hours or [insomnia](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/insomnia) - irregular sleeping patterns — for example those experienced by shift workers or students, or because of [jet lag](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/jet-lag) - [family history](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/family-medical-history) of sleep paralysis - sleeping on your back ## When should I see my doctor? Sleep paralysis is usually harmless and doesn’t need medical treatment. Talk to your [doctor](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/the-role-of-a-gp) if you feel anxious or [tired](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/fatigue) because of repeated episodes of sleep paralysis. [**FIND A HEALTH SERVICE** — The **Service Finder** can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/australian-health-services) ## How is sleep paralysis diagnosed? To diagnose sleep paralysis, your doctor will ask you about your symptoms. They may ask you to keep a sleep diary to record your sleeping patterns and any symptoms of sleep paralysis that you experience. You usually won’t need any tests to diagnose sleep paralysis. Your doctor might suggest that you do a [sleep study](https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/sleep-disorders/sleep-study) to check if you have any other sleep problems, for example narcolepsy. If your doctor thinks you may have narcolepsy, they will ask you to do a special sleep study called a ‘multiple sleep latency test’. In this test you will be given several opportunities to go to sleep during the day. The test will measure how long it takes you to fall asleep and what kind of sleep you experience. [**ASK YOUR DOCTOR** — Preparing for an appointment? Use the **Question Builder** for general tips on what to ask your GP or specialist.](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/question-builder) ## How is sleep paralysis treated? Sleep paralysis doesn’t cause serious problems for most people, and no treatment is usually needed. You may find it helpful to learn about sleep paralysis and speak to your doctor for reassurance that there is no cause for concern. If you need treatment, these measures may help: - [relaxation techniques](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/relaxation-techniques-for-stress-relief) and [meditation](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/meditation) - [cognitive behavioural therapy](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/cognitive-behaviour-therapy-cbt) - some types of [antidepressant medicines](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/antidepressants) Your doctor may refer you to a specialist sleep physician. They can help you to improve your sleep quality. It’s also important to treat any health conditions that may be causing your sleep paralysis. For example, there are medicines used to treat narcolepsy that may help with sleep paralysis symptoms. [**LOOKING FOR A MEDICINE?** — To search by brand name or active ingredient, use the **Medicines information** search feature.](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicines) ## What are the complications of sleep paralysis? Sleep paralysis doesn’t cause any complications. It generally doesn’t stop you getting enough sleep. Some people may experience reduced sleep quality. ## Can sleep paralysis be prevented? Getting enough sleep may reduce your chances of experiencing sleep paralysis. Most adults need between 7 and 9 hours of sleep a night. It may also help to keep to a regular sleeping pattern, by going to bed around the same time each night and getting up at the same time each morning. Try these sleep habits to help prevent sleep paralysis: - Sleep on your side. - Avoid napping. - Use a night light. - Sleep in a cool and quiet environment. - Try not to go back to sleep after a sleep paralysis episode. Other ways to improve your sleep hygiene include the following: - Cut down on coffee and other drinks containing [caffeine](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/caffeine) — avoid them in the evening. - Get regular [exercise](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/fitness-and-exercise), but not too close to bedtime. - Do not drink [alcohol](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/how-alcohol-affects-your-health), smoke or eat big meals before bedtime. - Reduce your [stress](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/stress) and create a relaxing environment, especially before bedtime. - Avoid screens for 1 to 2 hours before bedtime. There are also techniques that you can try to disrupt sleep paralysis when it occurs. This includes: - Try to move your fingers and toes. - Focus on staying calm and breathing. - Deliberately try to wake yourself up or stay awake. ## Resources and support If you are concerned about sleep paralysis, you can call healthdirect on [1800 022 222](tel:1800022222) at any time to speak to a registered nurse (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria) for more information and advice. You can also contact a sleep disorder clinic or sleep specialist. For more information about sleep: - Visit the [Sleep Health Foundation](https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/) for information on sleep disorders. - Try [MindSpot’s Sleep Course](https://www.mindspot.org.au/treatments/sleep-course/) — a free, therapist-assisted online program to improve your sleep. - Visit [Sleep Disorders Australia](https://www.sleepoz.org.au/) for more information on sleep disorders. If you need help with a condition like anxiety or PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder): - Contact [Beyond Blue](https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/talk-to-a-counsellor) if you’re struggling with depression or anxiety. - [SANE Australia](https://www.sane.org/) offers advice on self-care and online support forums. ### Languages other than English For practical information in a range of community languages about getting a good night’s sleep, visit the [Transcultural Mental Health Centre Practical Guide Series](https://www.dhi.health.nsw.gov.au/transcultural-mental-health-centre-tmhc/resources/multilingual-resources-by-title/a-practical-guide-series). #### Sources: John Murtagh's General Practice, 8th Edition *[(Chapter 60: Sleep disorders)](https://murtagh.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?sectionid=262300735&bookid=3133#1186903248 "Chapter 60: Sleep disorders")*, Cureus *[(Recent Insights Into Sleep Paralysis: Mechanisms and Management)](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11344621/ "Recent Insights Into Sleep Paralysis: Mechanisms and Management")*, Sleep Medicine *[(Isolated sleep paralysis: Clinical features, perception of aetiology, prevention and disruption strategies in a large international sample)](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1389945723000709 "Isolated sleep paralysis: Clinical features, perception of aetiology, prevention and disruption strategies in a large international sample")*, Sleep Medicine *[(Experiences and beliefs related to sleep paralysis among the general population of the twin cities: A cross-sectional study)](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1389945724004453 "Experiences and beliefs related to sleep paralysis among the general population of the twin cities: A cross-sectional study")*, International Journal of Basic Medical Research *[(Sleep Paralysis, a Medical Condition with a Diverse Cultural Interpretation)](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6082011/ "Sleep Paralysis, a Medical Condition with a Diverse Cultural Interpretation")*, Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports *[(Sleep Disorders in Wilson’s Disease)](https://www.crmrwilson.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Sleep-disorders-in-Wilson-Cochen-et-Poujois-2019.pdf "Sleep Disorders in Wilson’s Disease")*, Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine *[(Multiple Sleep Latency Test: when are 4 naps enough?)](https://jcsm.aasm.org/doi/10.5664/jcsm.8976 "Multiple Sleep Latency Test: when are 4 naps enough?")*, Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment *[(A clinician's guide to recurrent isolated sleep paralysis)](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4958367/ "A clinician's guide to recurrent isolated sleep paralysis")*, Frontiers in Psychology *[(How to Make the Ghosts in my Bedroom Disappear? Focused-Attention Meditation Combined with Muscle Relaxation (MR Therapy) — A Direct Treatment Intervention for Sleep ParalysisUpdated)](https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2016.00028/full "How to Make the Ghosts in my Bedroom Disappear? Focused-Attention Meditation Combined with Muscle Relaxation (MR Therapy) — A Direct Treatment Intervention for Sleep ParalysisUpdated")* Learn more here about the [development and quality assurance of healthdirect content](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/about-our-content). Last reviewed: July 2025 [Back To Top](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep-paralysis#backToTop) ## Search our site for - [Narcolepsy](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/search-results/Narcolepsy "Search results for: Narcolepsy") - [Sleep](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/search-results/Sleep "Search results for: Sleep") ## Need more information? These trusted information partners have more on this topic. General search results Results for medical professionals Top results [Narcolepsy and cataplexy - myDr.com.au Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder characterised by excessive daytime sleepiness. People with narcolepsy can be struck with urges to sleep several times a day and may suffer from cataplexy - a loss of muscle function or sleep paralysis. *Read more on myDoctor website* ](https://mydr.com.au/first-aid-self-care/narcolepsy-and-cataplexy/) [Narcolepsy \| Sleep Health Foundation This is a fact sheet about Narcolepsy. Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) and a tendency to fall asleep suddenly and uncontrollably. *Read more on Sleep Health Foundation website* ](https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/sleep-disorders/narcolepsy) [Narcolepsy: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options Learn about narcolepsy, its symptoms, causes, and treatment options. Understand how narcolepsy is diagnosed and managed. *Read more on Brain Foundation website* ](https://brainfoundation.org.au/disorders/narcolepsy/) Show more Top results [Navigating Narcolepsy Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological condition characterised by recurring periods of excessive sleepiness. It may also cause cataplexy (sudden involuntary muscle weakness or paralysis), hallucinations and/or sleep paralysis. *Read more on Ausmed Education website* ](https://www.ausmed.com/learn/articles/narcolepsy) Show more ## Disclaimer Healthdirect Australia is not responsible for the content and advertising on the external website you are now entering. 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## Key facts - Sleep paralysis is when you go from a state of being asleep to being awake but can’t move your muscles. - Sleep paralysis can be scary, but only lasts a short time and doesn’t cause harm. - During an episode of sleep paralysis, you might have hallucinations (see or hear things that aren’t real), like feeling the presence of someone in your room. - Sleep paralysis can be caused by irregular sleeping patterns or not getting enough sleep. - Usually you don’t need any treatment, but episodes can be prevented by maintaining healthy sleep habits. ## On this page - [What is sleep paralysis?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep-paralysis#what-is) - [What are the symptoms of sleep paralysis?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep-paralysis#symptoms) - [What causes sleep paralysis?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep-paralysis#caused) - [When should I see my doctor?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep-paralysis#doctor) - [How is sleep paralysis diagnosed?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep-paralysis#diagnosed) - [How is sleep paralysis treated?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep-paralysis#treated) - [What are the complications of sleep paralysis?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep-paralysis#compications) - [Can sleep paralysis be prevented?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep-paralysis#prevented) - [Resources and support](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep-paralysis#resources) - [Related information on Australian websites](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep-paralysis#searchGeneralResults) ## What is sleep paralysis? Sleep paralysis is when you cannot move or speak for a short time after waking up or while falling [asleep](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sleep). It may last a few seconds or a few minutes. About 8 in every 100 people will experience sleep paralysis at some stage. It might happen only once, or recur often. It usually starts in [adolescence or early adulthood](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/life-stages), around 17 to 20 years old. It does not cause any physical harm, but it can be scary. During a stage of sleep called ‘rapid eye movement (REM)’ sleep, your body becomes temporarily paralysed. This means you can’t move your [muscles](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/bones-muscles-and-joints). It may be your body’s way of preventing you from acting out your dreams. This paralysis is normal, but you’re not aware of it because you’re asleep. If this muscle paralysis from REM sleep continues after you wake up, you will be fully aware of being paralysed. ## What are the symptoms of sleep paralysis? During an episode of sleep paralysis, you are awake and aware of what is going on. Episodes can involve: - not being able to move any part of your body, except your [eyes](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/eyes) - not being able to talk - feeling scared or [anxious](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/anxiety) - [hallucinations](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/hallucination) — for example, seeing things that aren’t real, sensing there is an intruder in your room or that something is pressing on your chest or choking you - hearing noises that are not there such as voices, hissing, zapping or buzzing - [sweating](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/night-sweats) ## What causes sleep paralysis? Sleep paralysis may occur on its own or it may be related to other health conditions, including: - [high blood pressure](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/high-blood-pressure-hypertension) - [mental health conditions](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-health-conditions) — in particular [anxiety](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/anxiety) and [post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd) - [obstructive sleep apnoea](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/obstructive-sleep-apnoea) - narcolepsy — a brain condition involving extreme daytime drowsiness even after enough sleep - [alcohol](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/alcohol) or [substance abuse](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/substance-abuse) - Wilson’s disease — a rare [genetic condition](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/guide-to-genetic-disorders) where too much copper builds up in the body Sleep paralysis is also linked to: - not getting enough sleep — for example, because of work hours or [insomnia](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/insomnia) - irregular sleeping patterns — for example those experienced by shift workers or students, or because of [jet lag](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/jet-lag) - [family history](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/family-medical-history) of sleep paralysis - sleeping on your back ## When should I see my doctor? Sleep paralysis is usually harmless and doesn’t need medical treatment. Talk to your [doctor](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/the-role-of-a-gp) if you feel anxious or [tired](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/fatigue) because of repeated episodes of sleep paralysis. [**FIND A HEALTH SERVICE** — The **Service Finder** can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/australian-health-services) ## How is sleep paralysis diagnosed? To diagnose sleep paralysis, your doctor will ask you about your symptoms. They may ask you to keep a sleep diary to record your sleeping patterns and any symptoms of sleep paralysis that you experience. You usually won’t need any tests to diagnose sleep paralysis. Your doctor might suggest that you do a [sleep study](https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/sleep-disorders/sleep-study) to check if you have any other sleep problems, for example narcolepsy. If your doctor thinks you may have narcolepsy, they will ask you to do a special sleep study called a ‘multiple sleep latency test’. In this test you will be given several opportunities to go to sleep during the day. The test will measure how long it takes you to fall asleep and what kind of sleep you experience. [**ASK YOUR DOCTOR** — Preparing for an appointment? Use the **Question Builder** for general tips on what to ask your GP or specialist.](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/question-builder) ## How is sleep paralysis treated? Sleep paralysis doesn’t cause serious problems for most people, and no treatment is usually needed. You may find it helpful to learn about sleep paralysis and speak to your doctor for reassurance that there is no cause for concern. If you need treatment, these measures may help: - [relaxation techniques](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/relaxation-techniques-for-stress-relief) and [meditation](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/meditation) - [cognitive behavioural therapy](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/cognitive-behaviour-therapy-cbt) - some types of [antidepressant medicines](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/antidepressants) Your doctor may refer you to a specialist sleep physician. They can help you to improve your sleep quality. It’s also important to treat any health conditions that may be causing your sleep paralysis. For example, there are medicines used to treat narcolepsy that may help with sleep paralysis symptoms. [**LOOKING FOR A MEDICINE?** — To search by brand name or active ingredient, use the **Medicines information** search feature.](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicines) ## What are the complications of sleep paralysis? Sleep paralysis doesn’t cause any complications. It generally doesn’t stop you getting enough sleep. Some people may experience reduced sleep quality. ## Can sleep paralysis be prevented? Getting enough sleep may reduce your chances of experiencing sleep paralysis. Most adults need between 7 and 9 hours of sleep a night. It may also help to keep to a regular sleeping pattern, by going to bed around the same time each night and getting up at the same time each morning. Try these sleep habits to help prevent sleep paralysis: - Sleep on your side. - Avoid napping. - Use a night light. - Sleep in a cool and quiet environment. - Try not to go back to sleep after a sleep paralysis episode. Other ways to improve your sleep hygiene include the following: - Cut down on coffee and other drinks containing [caffeine](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/caffeine) — avoid them in the evening. - Get regular [exercise](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/fitness-and-exercise), but not too close to bedtime. - Do not drink [alcohol](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/how-alcohol-affects-your-health), smoke or eat big meals before bedtime. - Reduce your [stress](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/stress) and create a relaxing environment, especially before bedtime. - Avoid screens for 1 to 2 hours before bedtime. There are also techniques that you can try to disrupt sleep paralysis when it occurs. This includes: - Try to move your fingers and toes. - Focus on staying calm and breathing. - Deliberately try to wake yourself up or stay awake. ## Resources and support If you are concerned about sleep paralysis, you can call healthdirect on [1800 022 222](tel:1800022222) at any time to speak to a registered nurse (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria) for more information and advice. You can also contact a sleep disorder clinic or sleep specialist. For more information about sleep: - Visit the [Sleep Health Foundation](https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/) for information on sleep disorders. - Try [MindSpot’s Sleep Course](https://www.mindspot.org.au/treatments/sleep-course/) — a free, therapist-assisted online program to improve your sleep. - Visit [Sleep Disorders Australia](https://www.sleepoz.org.au/) for more information on sleep disorders. If you need help with a condition like anxiety or PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder): - Contact [Beyond Blue](https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/talk-to-a-counsellor) if you’re struggling with depression or anxiety. - [SANE Australia](https://www.sane.org/) offers advice on self-care and online support forums. ### Languages other than English For practical information in a range of community languages about getting a good night’s sleep, visit the [Transcultural Mental Health Centre Practical Guide Series](https://www.dhi.health.nsw.gov.au/transcultural-mental-health-centre-tmhc/resources/multilingual-resources-by-title/a-practical-guide-series).